With Manziel's assist, Toreros perform before a large NFL group

K.C. Alfred / San Diego Union-Tribune

Former NFL quarterback Johnny Manziel, left, consults with former Toreros pass-catchers Justin Priest and Ross Dwelley, right, at the University of San Diego's NFL Pro Day March 22, 2018. Holding up the clipboard is Manziel's coach, George Whitfield Jr.

Former NFL quarterback Johnny Manziel, left, consults with former Toreros pass-catchers Justin Priest and Ross Dwelley, right, at the University of San Diego's NFL Pro Day March 22, 2018. Holding up the clipboard is Manziel's coach, George Whitfield Jr. (K.C. Alfred / San Diego Union-Tribune)

Cesaire did not equate Petersen’s overall aptitude to that of Dumervil, who has recorded 105.5 NFL sacks since Denver drafted him in the fourth round, but said he has no doubt Petersen can succeed as a pass-rusher against NFL blockers.

“The best thing is, he shows up in games,” Cesaire said.

The coach said Petersen was at his best against USD’s toughest opponents. In December, for example, he notched three first-half sacks against FCS powerhouse North Dakota State, the alma mater of Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz, to become the all-time FCS leader in sacks with 44.

Recalling that USD was inclined to cut Petersen when he was an undersized freshman, Cesaire told him Thursday, “You always beat the odds before.”

NFL evaluators gathered at USD’s carpeted practice field to watch Manziel, a former Cleveland Browns quarterback attempting a comeback, throw to former Toreros pass-catchers Ross Dwelley and Justin Priest.

With 10 touchdown catches last season, Dwelley led all FCS tight ends despite missing two games with a dislocated finger. Priest, a wide receiver, had 75 catches for 1,097 yards and 13 touchdowns and was named the offense’s Most Valuable Player.